Make Mealtime Family Time

• Divide tasks, so Mom alone is not responsible for preparing food, serving, and washing dishes.

• Don't discuss things that would embarrass or humiliate family members. Certain subjects children may want to discuss might require more one-on-one listening. Otherwise, there are no taboo topics.

• Dinner is a good opportunity to build self-esteem. By listening to what children have to say, you are saying, "I value what you do; I respect who you are and what you're doing."